Deadly beauty of nature's storms

Storm clouds were spotted gathering over Sarasota, Florida, on Sunday. Though picturesque, nature can be deadly.

Local media reported that a man was killed after being struck by lightning at a beach that afternoon. He had been treated by paramedics and lifeguards at the scene, and was taken to hospital, where he died.

Florida routinely leads the United States in lightning deaths, according to the National Weather Service, with five of the 16 fatal lightning strikes in the country last year happening in the state.

Hurricanes are also a part of life for Florida residents. Last September, a record 6.5 million residents were evacuated as Hurricane Irma approached. Six people were killed.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on June 27, 2018, with the headline 'Deadly beauty of nature's storms'. Print Edition | Subscribe

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